Reflecting on the process of institutionalization of the elderly

Background and objectives: Aging is a natural process that has achieved greater importance and concern from the considerable increase in life expectancy of the population. It is noted that currently there is an increase of studies related to elderly care, especially one who is in a long-stay institution (ILP). The aim of this paper is to discuss the elderly institutionalization process and the characteristics of the family group and profile of the hospitalized population in these institutions. Content: The increase in the elderly population over time is accompanied by changes in family structure and routine, so that, for many families, become unviable meet the needs of the elderly. Thus, the long-stay institutions for the Elderly (ILPIs) constitute an alternative to meet these needs, providing comprehensive care for multidisciplinary teamwork. However, one should pay special attention, so that there is a break in the family ties of the elderly, since the family is an essential tool in the care qualification. Conclusion: It is essential to abandon the concept that by joining the ILPIs the elderly are abandoned and helpless, because with the change in family routine, the implementation of the National Policy for the Elderly and the improvement of institutions, it has become an important alternative to the well-being of the elderly, allowing access to assistance that often do not receive in their home environment, it is important to maintain the family bond, as it constitutes an important tool for the quality of life of the elderly.